Cork Mosaic Tile

Quality cork is harvested from the cork oak tree found in Mediterranean areas.  The tree forms a thick, rugged bark that is harvested about every 10 years to produce cork products such as wine stoppers, coasters, bulletin boards and…flooring. The harvesting of the cork does not harm the tree, in fact, no trees are cut down during the harvesting process. Only the bark is extracted, and a new layer of cork regenerates, making it a rapidly-renewable resource.

The natural characteristics of cork make it an ideal choice for many rooms of the home. Cork is a natural insulator making it warm underfoot, comfortable to stand on for periods of time, and is anti-allergenic and easy to maintain.

At House+Earth, our cork mosaic flooring is produced from recycled wine stoppers that are cut and sheeted in 1’x2’ sheets, either with a flexible paper mesh-backing or an adhesive sticker on the front (similar to other tile mosaics). They are installed using the glue-then-grout method, just with a couple extra steps. These floors have all the characteristics and benefits of more traditional cork floors but they are also suitable for saunas, showers and other potentially wet areas.

Come into H+E today and view our samples! Set up a complimentary consultation with our in-house designers (me!) and we can discuss using this product in your space!

The 60-30-10 Rule

When it comes to choosing a color palette for your space, 

three is never a crowd!

Here is the rule:

When choosing your palette for a particular space, 

it is easiest to break down the colors into percentages:

dominate color (60%)

secondary color (30%)

accent color (10%)

Now, what does this mean in relation to your room? Easy.

60% of the color will be applied to the walls

30% of the color will be used in upholstery or surface finishes

10% of the color in your room will be applied in accent pieces

Beautiful, right?

Brass is back!

Did you hear? Brass is back - it's predicted to be a growing trend in 2013. With more and more desire to  gear towards vintage or retro design, it's no wonder this metal has resurfaced. When used appropriately as an accent material, brass has the ability to add a lot of sophistication and elegance to your space. Take a look for yourself...

Contemporary Bathroom design by San Francisco Interior Designer Artistic Designs for Living, Tineke Triggs

Modern Kitchen design by New York Architect WORKSTEAD

Photo Via note to self.

Photo Via Pinterest.

Eclectic Home Office design by Orange County Interior Designer Domicile Interior Design

White Kitchens

White kitchens seem to be a growing trend, and understandably so! The bright white with monochromatic color schemes are breathtakingly beautiful. They represent cleanliness and elegance! But, lets face it - for the average family, an entirely white kitchen is just not practical.

Modern Kitchen design by New York Architect Chelsea Atelier Architect, PC

Here are three suggestions to help maintain that bright white design while considering maintainability:

Countertops.

Select a countertop that has color to it  - even if its a light grey! 

Color and movement in your surface will conceal messes. 

Also, keep in mind the material - nonporous materials are less likely to stain. Anything that has to be sealed has the ability to be etched through by any acidic products. (Limes, vinegar, and even wine!)

Contemporary Kitchen design by San Francisco Architect Feldman Architecture, Inc.

Backsplash. If you actually cook in your kitchen, you know oils and grease have the ability to splash (it seems) just about everywhere. Texture and color on your backsplash will help to conceal this mess. Of course you'll still need to wipe it clean regularly, but over time you'll be lowering your upkeep and risk of stains or damage.

Contemporary Kitchen design by Other Metro Interior Designer Atmosphere Interior Design Inc.

Lacquered. A trend in itself this year is lacquered surfaces. Considering this finish for your kitchen cabinetry is an excellent idea for durability. White wood may fade over time, show more of its wear and tear, and can be difficult to keep clean. For a low maintenance and modern design, you may want to keep lacquer in mind. 

Modern Kitchen design by Miami Photographer Dan Forer, Photographer

Here is a well designed, functional, and practical white kitchen. By selecting neutral colors in natural materials this space still speaks of cleanliness and beauty!

Eclectic Kitchen design by Boston Kitchen And Bath Venegas and Company

Sofa Statement!

Did you know it only takes 5 to 15 seconds for someone to form a first impression? When it comes to your home, there are a number of influences that subconsciously play a roll in forming one's impression - especially your interior decor!

The sofa is most commonly the largest piece of furniture in the living room. Distract your visitors from forming a negative impression by 'wowing' them with a statement piece! Ideally, residential interior spaces should have the ability to speak for the client - one's style and personality should be displayed through their decor. Why not make a statement?

Kravet is a product line which offers furniture, accessories, fabrics, trimmings, rugs, and more! Kravet specializes in 'style, luxury and exceptional design.'

Kravet's Delta Sofa is a perfect example of a statement piece. The majority of people struggle with the concept of contemporary design, assuming it is too 'funky', non-functional, or uncomfortable. The Delta Sofa is perfect for the client that enjoys a 'transitional' style - a mix of contemporary and traditional. This modest sofa catches your eye because of the interesting shape and straight, clean lines. Leave the existing fabric for a fresh look, or add a custom material to give it your own spin!

Wouldn't you say 'wow' if you walked into a room and spotted this sofa?
Design the life you love!

Must Have Design Apps!

Today we’d like to share with you a couple of our favorite must have design apps! These days – there is an app for every. So, we weren’t surprised to find a link for 21 Apps for Design!

Here are my favorites: For your quick fix or minor adjustment - this handy dandy level app is a life saver! For more information about the iHandy Level, click here!
If you are out and about and a color catches your eye - use this Benjamin Moore Color Capture App to instantly select its match with a Benjamin Moore paint!  For a demonstration on how to use the app, click here!
With tools like this Picture Measure App, virtual design is always a possibility! For more information about the Picture Measure App, click here!

Don't be caught with crooked wall art - take advantage of the convenience of the iHandy Level! Don't forget that paint color that caught your eye - use the Benjamin Moore app to instantly find your dream color! And lastly, help you and your design out in your next virtual design project by using the Picture Measure app! Technology is advancing to make our lives easier - why not utilize it?

Design the life you love!

Paint Plan - Hacienda Inspired

I love color! The fact that a particular color can provoke human behaviors and cause certain emotional reactions is fascinating to me! This project was one where color came into play in every space - my  client wanted Hacienda inspired color schemes - "NO neutrals"!...Music to my ears.

These clients were a very cute, young couple living in a beautiful Southwestern styled home with a terracotta roof and stucco facade. The wife had done a fabulous job at establishing an eclectic interior aesthetic by decorating with bold colors and exotic finds from all over the world. Her only task left to tackle were the neutral, "boring" walls.
That's where I came in!



Each space was defined by a bold pairing of colors.
Upon entry of the home, you were greeted with a shade of rose on the foyer walls and barrel ceiling. Passing through into the living, the tone was shifted to a golden yellow allowing the boldly colored decor to pop! In the adjacent open kitchen, blue was applied to the ceiling with the toffee orange on the walls to compliment. The master suite turned into a serine space with the calming shade of misty blue and ceiling accent of a deep teal. This particular pairing of colors allowed the rustic wooden features throughout the suite to be highlighted as a main feature.

HERE'S A TIP WHEN SELECTING PAINT COLORS:
Pull inspiration from your favorite pieces throughout the house!

DESIGN THE LIFE YOU LOVE!